: a quick, unsteady movement of light : a sparkle or flicker of light
We saw the twinkle of a candle in the window.
twinkles; twinkled; twinkling
1
: to shine with an unsteady light : to produce small flashes of light
The lights of the city twinkled in the distance.
Stars twinkle in the night sky.
twinkling Christmas lights
2
of the eyes
: to have a friendly or happy expression
Her eyes twinkled with excitement/joy/pride.
Cite this Entry
“Twinkle.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/twinkle. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.
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